Talk to your doctor about your medications. You may be asked to stop taking some medications up to 1 week before the procedure.

Take antibiotics if instructed.

Follow a special diet if instructed.

Shower the night before using antibacterial soap if instructed.

Arrange for someone to drive you home from the hospital. Also, have someone to help you at home.

Eat a light meal the night before. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight.

Anesthesia

General anesthesia
will be used. It will block any pain and keep you asleep through the surgery.

Description of the Procedure

Several small keyhole incisions will be made in the abdomen. Carbon dioxide gas will be passed into the area. This will make it easier for internal structures to be viewed. A small camera, called an endoscope will be passed through one of the incisions. The camera will light, magnify, and project the structures onto a video screen. The camera will be attached to one of the robotic arms. The other arms will hold instruments for grasping, cutting, dissecting, and suturing; for example:

While sitting at a console near the operating table, the doctor will use lenses to look at a magnified 3-D image of the inside of the body. Another doctor will stay by the table to adjust the camera and tools. The robotic arms and tools will be guided by movements of the surgeon. After the tools are removed, sutures or staples will be used to close the surgical area.

How Long Will It Take?

About 2-4 hours, depending on the procedure

Will It Hurt?

Anesthesia will prevent pain during surgery. Pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medications. You may also feel discomfort from the gas used during the procedure. This can last up to 3 days.

Average Hospital Stay

About 1-2 days, depending on the procedure

At Home

When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

Limit specific activities until you have recovered.

Follow your doctor's instructions.

Total recovery usually takes about 3-6 weeks.

Call Your Doctor

It is important for you to monitor your recovery after you leave the hospital. Alert your doctor to any problems right away. If any of the following occur, call your doctor:

Catheter stops draining or falls out (if you had a catheter placed)

Difficulty urinating

Heavy bleeding or clots in the urine

Pain, burning, urgency, or increased frequency of urination

Signs of infection, including fever and chills

Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge from an incision site

Abdominal swelling or pain

Constipation, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Pain and/or swelling in your feet, calves, or legs

New or worsening symptoms

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.